Working Memory and Non-Verbal IQ-Clinical Implications

Authors

  • Muwafak H. Al-Eithan Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist, at Clinical Psychology, and at Rehabilitation Medicine, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Keywords:

Working memory, IQ, Nonverbal IQ, Neuropsychology, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This is a short clinical mini-review paper discussing a measure of cognitive importance, working memory. Working Memory (WM) refers to the capacity to store and manipulate information for a very short period of time. It is a cognitive workplace for processing simple or complex information and mental tasks. Working memory capacity is measured by complex span tasks that requires simultaneous short-term storage of information while processing additional information. WM has been shown to have influence on IQ testing. Here we discuss the clinical implications of WM on understanding, and reaching diagnostic evaluation of nonverbal IQ in adults. This short review suggest that clinicians (particularly in non-English speaking population- such as Arabic countries) should consider WM before diagnosing a patient with mental retardation, or IQ deterioration, for instance, based on nonverbal IQ only. The clinical implications are also discussed.

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Published

2017-11-08

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 2 (2017)

Section

Articles

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